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Top Tips For Breastfeeding

The HSE and their expert Lactation Consultants provide reassurance, support and help with any breastfeeding issues. Visit breastfeeding.ie for more information.

1. Skin-To-Skin Will Help

Safe skin-to-skin contact with your baby in the first hour after birth can help get the first feed off to a good start. In this position mum and baby act together instinctively to make it easy to feed:

Baby is held close supported, and facing the breast.

Mum and baby feel calm and relaxed.

Mum supports the baby's neck, back and shoulder, which allows baby to tilt his head back easily.

The baby's chin touches the breast first, he opens his mouth wide and attaches on to the breast.

4. Correct Positioning And Attachment To The Breast Is Key

When your baby is positioned and attached well, they will find it easier to feed and you will find it more comfortable. A correct attachment to the breast is the secret to successful breastfeeding. Get latching help to position and attach your baby to the breast here.

5. Newborn Babies Have Tiny Tummies And Feed Often In The Early Days

Early and often feeding helps to build your milk supply (drained breasts make more milk). These early feeds help you to get to know your baby and to get comfortable with breastfeeding. Here's a guide for mums and dads on what to expect in the early days.

6. DO Feed From Both Breasts

When your baby is finished feeding he will come off the breast. In the early days and weeks always offer your baby your second breast. If he/she doesn't feed from your second breast or falls asleep, don't worry; just offer your other breast the next time you breastfeed.

7. DO Look After Yourself

Get as much rest as you can and forget the housework. Eat a well-balanced diet with plenty of protein. Drink lots of fluids and have a drink by the bed if you need a drink during night-time feeds. Some useful tops may include: Set up a feeding area - a comfortable chair, a small table with a drink and snacks, the remote control or a book nearby. Limit visitors and take advantage of offers of help from family and friends - making meals, general housework, shopping, helping with older children. Sticking a 'chore-list' on the fridge or cupboard can be a great way of reminding people of the type of help you'd really appreciate.

8. DO Accept Help If It's Offered!

If people offer help, accept it and ask your midwife or public health nurse to put you in touch with new, as well as experienced, mothers. If you have a partner and he can be at home with you during these first few weeks after the birth, involve him as much as possible. Encourage dad to hold and cuddle your baby as you get ready to feed, or after feeding, it is important that you all spend time together as a family getting to know your new baby.

9. DO Wear Comfortable Clothes

Wear what is comfortable when you are at home. When out and about mothers often find wearing a strappy top underneath a looser top, means you can lift the outer top up and the top of the strappy top down to feed your baby. Here are some more tips on breastfeeding out and about. A good nursing bra is important to support your breasts and help you feed your baby. Choose one with easy click straps to enable your baby to breastfeed comfortably. You don't need any special equipment for breast-feeding, although good nursing bras and some breast pads will help.

10. Enjoy This Time With Your Baby

As your baby gets older many mothers find they become more confident when breastfeeding. Going to a breastfeeding support group is a great way of meeting other moms and babies, sharing experiences and making new friends.